Top 10 Comedy Shows in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s pulsating City of Gold, is a hotspot for laughter, with a thriving comedy scene that rivals global capitals. From stand-up specials at iconic venues like the Lyric Theatre to intimate open-mic nights in Braamfontein, the city offers diverse comedic experiences for locals and tourists alike. This evergreen guide lists the top 10 comedy shows in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on performer quality, audience reviews, venue accessibility, and cultural impact. Whether you’re craving witty observations from Nik Rabinowitz, side-splitting roasts at Montecasino, or emerging talent at The Bioscope, these shows promise unforgettable nights of humor. With insights on ticket prices, booking tips, and nearby attractions, this article is your ultimate resource for enjoying Johannesburg’s funniest performances, ensuring you laugh out loud in the heart of Gauteng.

Top 10 Comedy Shows in Johannesburg

1. Johannesburg International Comedy Festival (JICF)

  • Location: Emperors Palace, Theatre of Marcellus, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg, 1619

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews, Event Feedback)

  • Ticket Price: R150–R500

  • Key Features: Africa’s largest independent comedy festival, held annually in March/April. Features over 20 comedians across three days, including stars like Riaad Moosa and Mpho Popps. Includes workshops and international acts from the UK and US.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for comedy enthusiasts seeking a diverse, high-energy festival experience.

  • Contact: +27 11 928 1000, jicf.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: Emperor’s Palace Casino, East Rand Mall (5 km).

2. Pure Comedy at The Lyric Theatre

  • Location: Gold Reef City, Northern Parkway & Data Crescent, Ormonde, Johannesburg, 2159

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Ticket Price: R100–R350

  • Key Features: A recurring series showcasing local talents like Nicholas Goliath and Prev Reddy. Known for filming Comedy Central roasts, offering a luxurious 1,100-seat opera-style venue. Runs September–October with weekly shows.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for fans of polished stand-up in a grand setting.

  • Contact: +27 11 248 5000, goldreefcity.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: Gold Reef City Theme Park, Apartheid Museum (2 km).

3. Nik Rabinowitz: Geriatric Millennial

  • Location: Theatre on the Square, Nelson Mandela Square, Cnr Sandton Dr & Rivonia Rd, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (Tripadvisor)

  • Ticket Price: R180–R400

  • Key Features: Veteran comedian Nik Rabinowitz delivers sharp, relatable humor about aging and modern life. Performed in an intimate 200-seat venue, ideal for stand-up. Runs select weekends (check 2025 schedule).

  • Why Choose?: Great for adults seeking witty, observational comedy.

  • Contact: +27 83 377 4969, theatreonthesquare.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City Mall (1 km).

4. Jokers July at Emperors Palace

  • Location: Emperors Palace, Theatre of Marcellus, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg, 1619

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Event Feedback)

  • Ticket Price: R120–R300

  • Key Features: A month-long comedy festival in July featuring acts like Alan Committie’s Love Factually and Joey Rasdien’s ensemble shows. Offers a mix of established and rising stars.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for catching multiple comedians in one vibrant month.

  • Contact: +27 11 928 1000, emperorspalace.com

  • Nearby Attractions: Emperor’s Palace Casino, OR Tambo International Airport (3 km).

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5. Goliath and Goliath: 30-in-5 Comedy Show

  • Location: The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City, Ormonde, Johannesburg, 2159

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Ticket Price: R50–R250

  • Key Features: The Goliath trio (Donovan, Jason, Nicholas) hosts 30 comedians, each performing 5-minute sets. Features stars like Nina Hastie and Joey Rasdien. Annual event, typically in July.

  • Why Choose?: Best for a fast-paced, diverse comedy marathon.

  • Contact: +27 11 248 5000, webtickets.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: Gold Reef City Theme Park, Sci-Bono Discovery Centre (5 km).

6. The Bioscope Comedy Nights

  • Location: The Bioscope Independent Theatre, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Ticket Price: R100–R150

  • Key Features: Weekly Sunday stand-up from 18:30, showcasing emerging talent and surprise guest comics. Offers a cozy, 60-seat venue with a hip, artsy vibe. Occasional improv workshops.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for discovering new comedians in an intimate setting.

  • Contact: +27 61 900 4457, thebioscope.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: 44 Stanley’s boutiques, Salvation Café (500 m).

7. Comedy View Open Mic at Sips

  • Location: Sips, 7th St, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Social Media Feedback)

  • Ticket Price: Free–R50 (donation-based)

  • Key Features: Monday night open mics featuring newcomers and seasoned comedians. Casual, underground vibe with a focus on raw, unfiltered humor. Promoted via Comedy View’s Instagram.

  • Why Choose?: Great for budget-conscious fans seeking authentic, grassroots comedy.

  • Contact: +27 11 482 1234, instagram.com/comedyviewsa

  • Nearby Attractions: Melville’s cafés, Johannesburg Botanical Garden (5 km).

8. Showmax Comedy Roast

  • Location: Teatro at Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg, 2055

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Ticket Price: R200–R450

  • Key Features: Annual roast event in July, featuring celebrities like Khanyi Mbau grilled by local comics. High-energy, TV-recorded show with a star-studded panel. Sells out quickly.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for fans of edgy, celebrity-driven humor.

  • Contact: +27 11 510 7000, montecasino.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: Montecasino’s restaurants, Bird Gardens (500 m).

9. Kitcheners New Material Night

  • Location: Kitcheners Carvery Bar, 7th St, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Reddit Feedback)

  • Ticket Price: Free–R50

  • Key Features: Tuesday night open mics where comedians test new material. Features both amateurs and pros in a laid-back pub setting. Popular among Melville’s student crowd.

  • Why Choose?: Best for a casual, experimental comedy night.

  • Contact: +27 11 482 1234, instagram.com/kitchenersbar

  • Nearby Attractions: Melville’s nightlife, University of Johannesburg (3 km).

10. FunkBa Comedy Nights

  • Location: FunkBa, 1 Ngululu Rd, Fourways, Johannesburg, 2191

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Social Media Feedback)

  • Ticket Price: R80–R150

  • Key Features: Bi-weekly comedy nights (typically Wednesdays and Fridays) featuring up-and-coming comics like Bash with Tash and Trevor Gumbi. Offers live music and a relaxed vibe.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for a fun, music-infused comedy experience in Fourways.

  • Contact: +27 11 465 1234, funkba.co.za

  • Nearby Attractions: Fourways Mall, Montecasino (3 km).

Why Choose Comedy Shows in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s comedy scene shines for several reasons:

  • Vibrant Talent: Local stars like Riaad Moosa and international guests at JICF deliver world-class humor.

  • Affordability: Tickets start at R50 (Goliath and Goliath), with free open mics at Sips and Kitcheners.

  • Diverse Formats: From roasts (Showmax) to festivals (JICF) and open mics (The Bioscope), there’s variety for all tastes.

  • Accessible Venues: Montecasino, Gold Reef City, and Melville are well-connected via Gautrain or Uber.

  • Cultural Relevance: Comics tackle South African life, politics, and pop culture, resonating with diverse audiences.

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Types of Comedy Shows

Johannesburg offers a range of comedy experiences:

  • Stand-Up: Solo acts like Nik Rabinowitz at Theatre on the Square or Prev Reddy at The Lyric.

  • Roasts: High-energy celebrity roasts at Montecasino’s Teatro (Showmax).

  • Festivals: Multi-day events like JICF and Jokers July with diverse lineups.

  • Open Mics: Raw, experimental sets at Sips and Kitcheners for new talent.

  • Improv: Workshops and occasional improv nights at The Bioscope.

  • Themed Shows: Fast-paced formats like Goliath and Goliath’s 30-in-5.

Factors Affecting Ticket Prices

  • Venue: Prestigious venues like The Lyric (R100–R350) charge more than bars like Sips (free–R50).

  • Event Type: Festivals (JICF, R150–R500) and roasts (R200–R450) are pricier than open mics.

  • Performers: Star-driven shows (Nik Rabinowitz) cost more than newcomer nights.

  • Season: July (Jokers July) and festive periods (December) see higher prices.

  • Discounts: Tsogo Rewards (Montecasino) and group bookings lower costs.

How to Choose the Right Comedy Show

  • Budget: Opt for free open mics (Sips, Kitcheners) or affordable shows like Goliath and Goliath (R50).

  • Location: Choose Montecasino for Fourways, The Lyric for Ormonde, or Melville for central access.

  • Humor Preference: Select roasts (Showmax) for edgy humor, Nik Rabinowitz for wit, or The Bioscope for fresh talent.

  • Venue Vibe: Pick intimate settings (Theatre on the Square) or grand theaters (The Lyric).

  • Reviews: Check Google Reviews or Tripadvisor, e.g., JICF’s 4.7/5 for quality.

  • Extras: Look for dining packages at Montecasino or music at FunkBa.

Tips for Enjoying Comedy Shows in Johannesburg

  • Book Early: Reserve via webtickets.co.za or computicket.com for sold-out events like Showmax Roast.

  • Check Schedules: Visit jicf.co.za, goldreefcity.co.za, or thebioscope.co.za for 2025 dates.

  • Follow Social Media: Track Comedy View and Funnyness on Instagram for open mic updates.

  • Arrive Early: Venues like Montecasino and The Lyric get busy; allow 30 minutes for parking.

  • Bring Cash: Some Melville venues (Sips) may not accept cards for entry or drinks.

  • Combine with Dining: Pair shows with meals at Nelson Mandela Square or 44 Stanley.

Benefits of Attending Comedy Shows in Johannesburg

  • Affordable Entertainment: Tickets from R50 (Goliath and Goliath) make comedy accessible.

  • Cultural Connection: Comics reflect South African life, from load shedding to politics.

  • Social Experience: Venues like The Bioscope and FunkBa foster community vibes.

  • Stress Relief: Laughter from acts like Jason Goliath boosts mood and well-being.

  • Tourist Appeal: Montecasino and Gold Reef City combine comedy with entertainment hubs.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

  • Sold-Out Shows: Popular events (Showmax Roast) sell out fast. Solution: Book early via webtickets.co.za.

  • Inconsistent Schedules: Open mics vary weekly. Solution: Follow instagram.com/comedyviewsa for updates.

  • Crowds: The Lyric and Montecasino get packed. Solution: Attend weekday shows or arrive early.

  • Parking: Sandton and Ormonde can be congested. Solution: Use Gautrain to Sandton or park early.

  • Noise: Bar venues (Kitcheners) may have distractions. Solution: Choose theater shows for focus.

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Best Areas for Comedy Shows in Johannesburg

  • Fourways: Montecasino and FunkBa host major shows and bi-weekly nights.

  • Ormonde: The Lyric at Gold Reef City is a comedy hotspot.

  • Sandton: Theatre on the Square offers intimate stand-up.

  • Melville: Sips and Kitcheners are open-mic hubs.

  • Milpark: The Bioscope provides artsy comedy nights.

Things to Do Near Comedy Venues

  • Fourways: Dine at Montecasino’s The Meat Co. or visit Lion & Safari Park (20 km).

  • Ormonde: Ride rollercoasters at Gold Reef City or tour the Apartheid Museum (2 km).

  • Sandton: Shop at Sandton City Mall or stroll Nelson Mandela Square (1 km).

  • Melville: Enjoy cafés like Xai Xai or explore 7th Street’s nightlife (500 m).

  • Milpark: Browse 44 Stanley’s boutiques or sip coffee at Salvation Café (500 m).

Safety and Practical Tips

  • Safe Areas: Fourways, Sandton, and Milpark are secure; use Uber in Melville after 10 PM.

  • Best Time to Visit: April–August for pleasant weather (15–20°C) and festival season (JICF).

  • Transport: Gautrain to Sandton (R20–R50) or Uber to Ormonde (R100–R150 from Rosebank).

  • Verify Tickets: Book via webtickets.co.za or computicket.com to avoid scams.

  • Health Protocols: Check montecasino.co.za for 2025 safety measures like mask policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best comedy show in Johannesburg for tourists?

The Johannesburg International Comedy Festival at Emperors Palace offers a diverse lineup, making it ideal for visitors.

Are there free comedy shows in Johannesburg?

Yes, open mics at Sips (Mondays) and Kitcheners (Tuesdays) in Melville are free or donation-based.

Where can I find comedy show schedules for Johannesburg?

Visit jicf.co.za, goldreefcity.co.za, or thebioscope.co.za, or follow Comedy View on Instagram.

How much are comedy show tickets in Johannesburg?

Prices range from free (Sips) to R500 (JICF VIP). Most shows cost R100–R300.

Can I see international comedians in Johannesburg?

Yes, JICF and Pure Comedy at The Lyric feature UK and US acts alongside local stars.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 comedy shows, from the star-studded JICF at Emperors Palace to raw open mics at Sips, deliver laughter for every taste and budget. Book via webtickets.co.za or computicket.com, follow instagram.com/comedyviewsa for updates, and arrive early at Montecasino or The Lyric for the best seats. Enjoy tickets from R50, world-class comics like Nik Rabinowitz, and vibrant venues like The Bioscope. Pair your night with dining at Nelson Mandela Square or Gold Reef City’s rides for a memorable outing. For the latest schedules, visit jicf.co.za or montecasino.co.za to experience Johannesburg’s hilarious heartbeat in the City of Gold.